Utilizing Ultrasound for Residents as an Aid in Epidural Placement

Utilizing Ultrasound for Residents as an Aid in Epidural Placement

This randomized controlled trial will evaluate the use of ultrasound as an aid for epidural placement in residents performing all epidural techniques under direct staff anesthesiologist supervision.

The purpose of this study is to assess the abilities of the "Accuro" to assist in lumbar epidural placement in patients. It is hypothesized that the use of the Accuro will result in an increase of first-attempt success rates, defined as successful epidural needle placement on the first needle insertion attempt.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients presenting for vaginal delivery
• ASA-1, ASA-2, and ASA-3
• Patients with no known back deformities
• Ability to sit upright for epidural placement
• No prior lumbar surgery
• No allergies to ultrasound gel
• Pre-pregnancy BMI >= 30

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients < 18 years of age